Introduction
Easy Instant Pot Sloppy Joes are a delicious and convenient meal option that can be whipped up in no time, thanks to the Ninja Foodi or other pressure cookers. This classic comfort food is not only quick to make but also packed with flavor, making it a favorite among families. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for a hearty meal, this recipe promises satisfaction with minimal effort.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 lb ground beef
1.5 tbsp olive oil
1/2 c onion, diced (can use more)
1 bell pepper, diced
1 tbsp minced garlic
1 c tomato sauce
4 tbsp tomato paste or ketchup
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp mustard
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Instructions
1. Set the pot to the sauté function and add olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onions, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until it is no longer pink on the outside. Once cooked, turn off the sauté function.
3. Add all the remaining ingredients to the pot and stir to combine.
4. Secure the lid and set the pressure to high for 5 minutes.
5. Allow the steam to naturally release for 2 minutes, then perform a quick release.
6. Serve the sloppy joe mixture on buns and enjoy a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Put the pot on the sauté function. Add 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil to the pot. Once the oil is hot, add 1/2 cup of diced onion, 1 diced bell pepper, and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Sauté the mixture for about 2 minutes to soften the vegetables slightly.
Step 2: Cook Ground Beef
Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Cook it until the outsides are no longer pink, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, turn off the pot.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
Add the following ingredients into the pot: 1 cup of tomato sauce, 4 tablespoons of tomato paste (or ketchup), 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of mustard. Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid on the pot. Set it to high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pot to naturally release steam for 2 minutes before performing a quick release.
Step 5: Serve
Once all the steam has been released and it is safe to open the lid, stir the Sloppy Joe mixture again. Serve it on buns and enjoy.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
These Sloppy Joes can be served with various sides, including potato chips, fries, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving again.
Customization
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite spices or using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Using the sauté function on the Instant Pot or Ninja Foodi, heat olive oil and cook the diced onions, bell pepper, and minced garlic for about two minutes. This technique helps to soften the vegetables and release their flavors.
Browning Meat
Add ground beef to the pot after sautéing the vegetables. Cook until the meat is no longer pink on the outside. This process adds depth of flavor to the dish.
Pressure Cooking
Once all ingredients are added, secure the lid and set the cooker to high pressure for five minutes. This method allows the flavors to meld together quickly and effectively.
Natural and Quick Release
After the cooking time is completed, allow for a natural steam release for two minutes before performing a quick release. This helps to prevent splatters and ensures the dish has a good texture.
Serving
Once the cooking process is complete and the steam has been released, serve the sloppy joes on buns while the mixture is warm.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a meat alternative for a different flavor or dietary preference.
What can I serve with sloppy joes?
Sloppy joes pair well with sides such as potato chips, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, sloppy joes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving.
What buns are best for sloppy joes?
Soft hamburger buns, sandwich rolls, or even toasted bread are great choices for serving sloppy joes.
Conclusion
The Easy Instant Pot Sloppy Joes recipe is a quick and delicious way to prepare a classic comfort food. With the convenient pressure cooking method, you can have flavorful sloppy joes ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Enjoy the rich blend of ingredients that come together to create a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
More recipes suggestions and combination
BBQ Chicken Sloppy Joes
Replace the beef with shredded chicken and add your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
Vegetarian Sloppy Joes
Use lentils or black beans instead of ground beef and follow the same cooking instructions for a hearty plant-based meal.
Spicy Sloppy Joes
Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to add some heat to your sloppy joes.
Sloppy Joe Quesadillas
Use leftover sloppy joe mixture as a filling for quesadillas, along with cheese, for a fun twist.
Sloppy Joe Pasta
Mix the prepared sloppy joe sauce with cooked pasta for a unique take on a family favorite.
Sloppy Joe Nachos
Serve the sloppy joe mixture over tortilla chips, topped with cheese, sour cream, and jalapeños for a delicious party snack.